Physics: Principles with Applications (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32162-592-7
ISBN 13: 978-0-32162-592-2

Chapter 5 - Circular Motion; Gravitation - Questions - Page 131: 16

Answer

If a piece of a satellite became detached, it would continue in orbit around the Earth right next to the satellite. It is subject to the same gravitational force that it was before.

Work Step by Step

To make the piece spiral in and hit the Earth, either slow it down (which happens naturally due to atmospheric resistance), or give it a component of velocity toward the Earth.
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